Fez Travel Guide

Fez
Overview

If Marrakesh is the tourist capital and Casablanca the commercial centre then Fez (or Fes) is by far and away the spiritual heart of Morocco, the most ancient of all the imperial cities and a place where the expression “where time has stood still” has never rang truer. In the heart of the country and bordered by the Atlas Mountains this medieval and spiritual centre has been astounding visitors for over 1000-years with its blend of Muslim customs stemming from both Spanish and Arab East influences.

The main focal point of this fascinating destination is the famed medina, Fes el-Bali (Old Fes), an amazing spider’s web of over 9,000 narrow and winding alleyways full of highly acclaimed attractions and a bundle of hidden treasures. No amount of planning can prepare the traveler for the never-ending souks, age-old cafés, iconic mosques, medersas and customary tanneries that they are likely to stumble across within minutes of landing in the city. The biggest issue faced by visitors is negotiating the streets and attempting to see everything. With playing children competing for space with donkey carts and the sights, sounds and smells of the bazaars spinning travelers dizzy, a lifetime can be spent in the Medina and at least four days are required to appreciate its true charm. Nevertheless, don’t neglect the chance to explore the French-styled Ville Nouvelle, take part in a vibrant festival or shop until the heart is content, and should it all become too much to handle, simply take a seat and watch as a world of century-old traditions unfold before the eyes.

One thing is for sure, as a popular destination, there is no shortage of ways in and out of Fez. Local taxis are forever on hand for trips to nearby Meknes, the capital city of Rabat and the ancient Roman town of Volubilis. For those with extended stays in the country, trains run regularly to the ever popular tourist haunts of Casablanca, Marrakesh and Tangier.

Things to do in
Fez

Sightseeing in Fez- At over 1000-years-old and one of the finest preserved medieval cities known to man, the streets of Fez are an absolute minefield of historical sights and tourist attractions, many of which are squeezed into the narrow lanes of Fes el-Bali, more commonly known as the Medina. Not to be missed are the landmark ancient medersas (Muslim theological universities), including those of Medersa Bou Inania and Medersa el Attarine. Fes is also famed for its tanneries, or Chouara, and from the rooftop of Tarrasse de Tannerie hoards of leatherworkers can be seen carrying out their time-honoured work. Other sights to add to the list are the Kairaouine Mosque and Bab Boujeloud, the latter being the main entry into the Medina and a hive of activity around its cafés and street stalls.

Fondouk el-Nejjarine - The Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts houses a host of interesting and detailed carvings. Check out the mosaic fountains in the outside courtyard.

Museum Belghazi - Four exhibitions of jewellery, weapons, embroidery and writing apparatus/manuscripts. Check out the Medina views from the rooftop terrace.

Fez Souks (Markets) - Shopping in Fez and negotiating the souks is something that even the most determined traveller may never come to grips with as the narrow lanes criss-cross in a bustling and boisterous maze. Hawkers come in bucket-loads so shop with patience and a sense of humour and be as hard as possible when bargaining.

Souk el Henna - Just off Talaa Kebira, this is the oldest market in Fez full of shaded stalls offering henna and unusual cosmetics as well as a large selection of cheap ceramics and pottery.

Chemmaine Souk - Not far from Kairaouine mosque, what was once the centre for candle buying is now a hotbed for velvet ceremonial outfits and colourful fezzes.

L’Marqtane - This former slave market is the best spot for finding bargain second-hand clothing.

Qbieb Naqes - Interesting street chock full with local food stands.

Achebine Souk - This is one of the most interesting souks, made up of a large bird market and abundance of tasty food stands. There is also one medicine shop, a remnant of the original marketplace.

Fez Festivals

National Festival of Amazigh Culture - Festival held in March celebrating and showcasing Berber culture through song, dance and exhibitions.

Festival of World Sacred Music - June welcomes the arrival of spiritual musical performances from classical European to Japanese drumming to American gospel influences, amongst others.

Fez Nightlife - Proud of its Islamic faith and long religious traditions, Fez is not the place to come looking for a late-night, booze-filled party and bars serving alcohol are often hard to come across. That said, there is still plenty of fun to be had sat in the Medina and around Souk el-Henna, where cafés stay open late, serving fresh juices and mint tea. Those on the look out for a beer will find bars serving alcohol at the large chain-hotels.

Fez
Weather

Fez
Travel Resources

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